The Newlywed Game, a major hit in the 1970s, tested newly married couples on how well they knew one another. Many of the questions were playful and entertaining, producing humorous responses. However, some of the missed answers were definite red flags. After all, how could you decide to spend the rest of your life with someone and not know their birthday, their favorite meal, or even that they have a birthmark on their left arm?

In the Bible, just before Peter denied Christ for the third time, one of the accusers recognized him for a simple reason: “His speech betrayed him.”

When you spend a great deal of time with someone, you begin to take on their characteristics. Their mannerisms, attitudes, and even their speech become familiar and, in some ways, part of who you are.

The same is true for a follower of Christ. Not only does their speech stand out, but their actions do as well. People notice there is something different about them. Unbelievers may not be able to identify exactly what it is, but fellow believers often recognize it immediately.

Most importantly, the Lord knows.

To be known by the Lord is the beginning of hope.

And where there’s hope, there’s a way.